After reading about the research methods listed in the unit and Stanford school’s the Bootcamp materials, I found similarities with the type of process I use when approaching any project. However, I found that the use of any method is dependent on what type of project I am dealing with. For example, It is important to review my own information about the topic before deciding to go out in the field and observe. To know what to look for is key because it is easy to get distracted by what is found in the brainstorming and exploration stage.
The bootcamp Bootleg document was very interesting to go through, the first thing that struck me was the identification of the mindsets. Craft Clarity made me think of my topic paper, this basically represents my intention towards writing about propaganda in graphic design. Propaganda as I’ve came to learn, has multiple meanings in which way it is used yet the one I am choosing to focus on is how it is used to inspire others by making a strong visual statement.
Empathize is the key to any given situation. It is important to engage, observe and take note, not only as a designer but also as a human-being. Watching how people behave with each other and how they act in a certain setting speaks volumes and is very important when thinking of coming up for a design solution. This method can assist in inspiring an idea, a thought and open doors to areas we would’ve missed due to factors like past perceived notions. It shatters any possible stereotyping we might’ve encountered and provides living evidence of human behavior.
It is also key to keep in mind to know what to look for in order to get the best collection of data needed and not to waste anytime in the process. Defining key information that will help shape the main point to focus on and express what we want to say.